Unbinding Tradition

80. Uninvited guest 🙂

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The morning light streamed through the intricate jaali windows of the Jeon residence, casting delicate patterns on the polished marble floors. The dining hall was bustling with the sounds of breakfast being served.

Seated at the large wooden table, the family enjoyed their morning meal. Mr. and Mrs. Kim, along with little Jiminee, were set to return to the Kim haveli today. The news weighed heavily on Tae's heart.

She placed a piece of roti on her plate but made no effort to eat. Instead, she looked at her parents with pleading eyes.

Tae- Maa, Bapu-sa, please stay for a bit longer. (her voice was soft, almost hesitant)

Jiminee, seated beside Mr. Kim, immediately perked up at Tae's words. The little girl, who had been happily munching on a ladoo, looked up at Mr Kim with wide, hopeful eyes.

Jm- Yes, Nana-sa! I want to stay here only. (she chirped, her tiny hands gripping the edge of the table)

Mr. Kim smiled at her, patting her head gently.

Mr Kim- No, gudiya. (he said in a patient voice) It's been so long since we came here. Your Nana-sa also has work, na? Plus, if you stay here, then who will Mingyu teach?

Jiminee's eyes widened in realization.

Jm- Ohhh! (she gasped dramatically) Mingu will be all alone!

Mr. Kim chuckled at her reaction but then turned to Tae with a more serious expression. His voice softened, yet there was firmness in his tone.

Mr Kim- Lado, it has already been a month. It doesn't look good for a daughter's parents to stay at their married daughter's house for too long. People might talk behind our backs.

Tae looked down at her plate, her fingers lightly gripping the edge. She had expected this response, but hearing it still stung.

She knew the unspoken rule—once a daughter was married, her home was her husband's house, not her maayka. A woman's parents were mere guests in her new world, and prolonged visits were frowned upon. It wasn't just about appearances; it was a matter of honor, of maintaining the delicate balance between the two families.

Yet, a part of her wished—just once—things could be different.

Her gaze shifted toward Jungkook, silently hoping he would say something. Anything. Maybe ask them to stay a little longer. But he was seated at the head of the table, silently eating his breakfast. His face was impassive, his focus entirely on the food before him.

Tae felt a pang in her chest. She knew he was still angry over last night's argument. His silence wasn't just about breakfast—it was his way of showing that their fight wasn't forgotten.

She swallowed, pushing back her disappointment. She had no right to expect anything from him. Not after how things had gone between them the previous night.

Mrs. Kim, who had been watching her daughter carefully, placed a gentle hand over Tae's.

Mrs Kim- Lado. (she said softly) You know how things are. A daughter's parents cannot linger too long at their Jamai-sa's house. It is not how things are done.

Tae forced a small smile, nodding.

Tae- I know, Maa.

But her voice lacked conviction.

She stole another glance at Jungkook,
However, it was at that moment that Jungkook finally looked up, shifting his attention elsewhere.

His sharp eyes landed on Jung-guk, who was eating silently.